In the age of social media, connectivity has never been easier. Messaging apps like Telegram enable us to connect with friends and even meet new people with similar interests through features like “People Nearby.” This location-based function shows active Telegram users within a certain radius, fostering potential connections. However, as much as we value connectivity, it’s essential to prioritize privacy and safety. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Telegram’s People Nearby feature, understand its potential risks, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to safely disable it.
Understanding Telegram’s People Nearby Feature
Telegram’s People Nearby feature allows users to discover other active users within a specific radius. The idea behind this feature is to connect individuals with similar interests or those participating in local group chats. By utilizing location data, Telegram aims to facilitate friendships based on proximity and shared content.The Concerns: Why You Might Want to Disable People Nearby
While People Nearby seems innocuous at first, it does raise some privacy and safety concerns:1. Potential Targeting by Strangers
By broadcasting your online status to nearby users, you become vulnerable to unsolicited messages and potential scams. Strangers in your vicinity can immediately initiate dialogue, including those with malicious intent.2. Risk of Location Exposure
The more alarming concern is that People Nearby could be exploited to determine your precise real-life location. For individuals dealing with stalkers or abusive individuals, this feature could pose a significant safety risk.Step-by-Step Guide: How to Disable People Nearby on Telegram
Step 1: Open the Telegram App
Launch the Telegram app on your device.Step 2: Access Contacts Menu
Navigate to the Contacts menu within the app.Step 3: Find People Nearby Option
Locate and tap the “Find People Nearby” option.Step 4: Stop Showing Me
At the top of the People Nearby list, tap the “Stop Showing Me” option to disable the feature.Step 5: Revoking Location Permissions (Optional)
For further privacy, consider revoking Telegram’s location-tracking permissions entirely on your mobile device.For iOS Devices:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on “Privacy & Security.”
- Choose “Location Services.”
- Find and select “Telegram.”
- Tap “Never” under “Allow Location Access.”
For Android Devices:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on “Apps.”
- Find and select “Telegram.”
- Tap on “Permissions.”
- Disable location access by tapping “Don’t allow.”